B&G Alumni Magazine - Fall 2025

FALL 2025 Bishop Verot Catholic High School Alumni Magazine

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Cover Story: Katie Scafidi '10 and Abigail Farrell '19 Catholics in Action New Faculty and Staff

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Table of Contents MISSION STATEMENT

editor

Patty Holmes patty.holmes@bvhs.org

Rooted in Catholic tradition, Bishop Verot educates the minds and hearts of all students in an innovative and community-centered learning environment, preparing them for lives of faithful service to the teachings of Jesus Christ.

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Letter from the Editor Patty Holmes

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Letter from the Principal Suzie O’Grady

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Letter from the Director of Advancement

principal

Suzie O'Grady suzie.ogrady@bvhs.org

Jeff Blair

director of advancement

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Jeff Blair jeff.blair@bvhs.org

House News

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asst. director of special eventsdonor & alumni relations

Spotlight on Katie Scafidi ’10 and Abigail Farrell ’19

Crystal Melton crystal.melton@bvhs.org

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athletic director

Mission Trips Return

Greg Coleman greg.coleman@bvhs.org

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sports editor

Catholics in Action

Ryan Murphy ’10 mtxemurphy@gmail.com

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creative director

The Verot Network (TVN)

April Bordeaux april@ABdesignerd.com

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advertising information

Welcome New Faculty

Patty Holmes patty.holmes@bvhs.org

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Coleman's Corner UNDERWRITTEN BY

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School News

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Black & Gold Magazine is published quarterly; fall, winter, spring, and summer by Bishop Verot Catholic High School, Inc. More than 6,500 copies are provided to alumni, parents, students, and friends.

Alumni Assocation Staying Connected

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Every effort is made to keep our database up to date and accurate. If you are a parent receiving this magazine at home in the name of your child, please contact us so we may update our database.

All address updates should be made by emailing Patty Holmes at communications@bvhs.org.

Copyright© 2025 Bishop Verot Catholic High School. All rights reserved.

Black & Gold Magazine • 239.274.6760 Bishop Verot Catholic High School, Inc. 5598 Sunrise Dr., Fort Myers, FL 33919

Alumni News

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Alumni Sports Recognized by Apple as a distinguished school for continuous innovation in learning, teaching, and the school environment.

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Alumni Calendar BVHS.org | 3

Letter from the Editor

Verot Alumni and Families, Fall is such an exciting time of year in high school! The start of a new school year offers so many new opportunities – welcoming a new class of freshmen to the family, club fair, college fair (and college application season), fall sports, especially Friday Night Lights, encouraging camaraderie and school spirit, and of course, Homecoming! Hopefully, many of you joined the festivities on campus, reconnecting with your fellow alum and cheering on the Vikings. Be sure to watch for pictures in the winter edition.

In this edition, see how this year has kicked off strong. On page 8, the 20252026 Core 14, the leadership team for the Community/House System, are introduced and several students share why their twice-weekly house meetings are the best part of their school day. On page 24, read about some exceptional students making it truly just different here. And, learn all about the launch of The Verot Network, the platform now housing Verot 360, Verot Sports Network, and The Verot Show.

Viking Creed …

As members of the Verot family, we will always support our fellow Vikings, defend our traditions, honor our legacy, and Bleed black and gold.

We are Verot!

Freshman Retreat Candlelight Prayer Service

You may notice the absence of the Fall Athletic Guide and its replacement, the all new Coleman’s Corner (page 22). With today’s social media, Verot athletic news is shared in the moment everywhere, making the print edition of the seasonal Athletic Guide outdated and counterproductive. For current athletic information, please follow team Instagram pages as well as verotathletics.org on Facebook.

Our Catholic faith has always been an integral part of Verot life and part of our mission. Students of today are more eager than ever to grow in their faith and we are continually working to offer faith-filled opportunities. This year, we were able to offer our first Mission Trip in years (page 14), and Catholics in Action club offered two faith-based camp opportunities over the summer as well (page 16).

The community/house system continues to find ways to include activities that encourage our faith (page 8). And, on page 12, learn about how Verot has had a lasting impact on the Clinger family, motivating generations to give back.

As you look through, please also notice some new advertisers. We are very grateful to the businesses who choose to support Verot through B&G advertising. If this is something that interests you, please visit https://www.bvhs. org/advancement/marketing-guide to learn how you too can support Verot while driving customers – hopefully fellow Verot alums – to your door.

Lastly, Freshman Placement Exams are being offered in November for the next group of freshmen beginning in the 2026-2027 school year. If you or someone you know has an 8th grader, do not miss this chance to join the Verot family! Check out the ad on page 6 for more information and the link to set up a private tour and apply.

It’s time to be a Viking!

Enjoy this edition!

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Letter from the Principal

As we begin a new school year, I am especially grateful for what God is doing in the hearts of our students. In recent years we have focused intentionally on faith, meeting students where they are on their journey and inviting them, gently and consistently, to take the next step. Faith has always been the cornerstone of Bishop Verot’s mission, and the post-COVID landscape made our call even clearer. During that time many young people reported feeling more anxious and less rooted in faith than generations before. As a Catholic school, we know that hope and wholeness are found in Christ, and that the formation of the soul and the formation of the mind belong together.

Mission Statement

…

Rooted in Catholic tradition, Bishop Verot educates the minds and hearts of all students in an innovative and community-centered learning environment, preparing them for lives of faithful service to the teachings of Jesus Christ.

Four years ago, we began gathering every week for Worship, a schoolwide time of prayer and testimony. Students listen to one another’s stories of how God is working in their lives, and many choose to share their own. This year we have a record number of students asking to share their story with their classmates. We also have 19 students participating in OCIT, the Order of Christian Initiation for Teens, who are preparing to receive the sacraments of initiation and become fully initiated members of the Catholic Church. This has been a consistent blessing over the past four to five years, and we are grateful for our Campus Ministry team and our partner parishes who are walking with these students.

At the same time, news reports are highlighting young people returning to church. Generation Z is discovering that faith is not a relic of the past but a lifeline for the present. It is inspiring to watch.

“Let no one despise your youth, but set the believers an example in speech and conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.” (1 Timothy 4:12) To our alumni, you helped build this. Your prayers, mentorship, and generosity have created a culture where students feel safe to ask big questions, encounter Christ, and grow in courage. I invite you to stay close.

Come to Homecoming, visit campus, speak in a class, share your own faith story at Worship, or send a note of encouragement to a teacher who once encouraged you.

Thank you for being part of the Bishop Verot family. Please keep our students in prayer this year so that they may know they are loved by God and called to bring His light to the world.

Blessings,

Mrs. Suzie O'Grady

Mrs. Suzie O’Grady Principal

BVHS.org | 5

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Letter from the Director of Development

The Legacy of Our Alumni: Shaping Today, Inspiring Tomorrow At Bishop Verot Catholic High School, the story of who we are cannot be told without the voices of those who walked our halls before. Our alumni have always been at the heart of our growth—championing our mission, strengthening our community, and carrying forward the Viking spirit long after graduation.

From classrooms to careers, our graduates have become leaders, innovators, and faithful stewards of tradition. Their impact is felt in every corner of campus: through scholarships that open doors, mentorship that guides students, and gifts that ensure Verot continues to thrive. Each contribution, whether of time, talent, or treasure, builds upon the foundation laid in 1962 and extends our mission for generations to come.

“We will not fail.”

– St. Francis de Sales – …

These words from our patron saint are a reminder that we are called to live and love like God. We, too, must never quit.

Never give up on one another or on ourselves. Above all, we must remember that God will never abandon us and His love never fails.

I was reminded of this legacy at the very start of the school year. During the freshman retreat, our newest Vikings experienced a powerful moment of bonding and tradition, an experience that will shape their journey at Verot in a unique way and have a lasting impact on their lives.

It’s in moments like these that the influence of our alumni is most evident, as their continued support makes these traditions possible.

As we look to the future, we invite all alumni to continue shaping the Verot story. By staying connected, supporting current students, and living out the values of faith, tradition, and excellence.

Alumni not only honor the past but also ensure that future Vikings inherit a school rich in culture, opportunity, and faith-filled purpose.

Once a Viking, Always a Viking. Together, we carry the legacy forward.

Jeff Blair

Jeff Blair Director of Advancement

BVHS.org | 7

Community News

Bishop Verot’s Community – House System 6 Communities...

1 Family We are Verot!

A Program Run by the Students for the Students – How it all Began

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et’s go back to 2016! Suzie O’Grady and Bill Stejskal attended a Catholic conference in Atlanta, where they first learned about a house/community system from administrators at St. James Academy in Kansas City. After staying in touch and learning more about the program, Bishop Verot Catholic High School was ready to roll it out in the fall of 2017. Now, nine years later, the program is stronger than ever.

In the words of Saint John Paul II: “Community is at the heart of all Catholic education, not simply as

“Community is at the heart of all Catholic education, not simply a concept to be taught, but as a reality to be lived.”

– St. John Paul II – 2025-2026 Heads of Family Seniors Maggie Swift and Thomas Eichten

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a concept to be taught, but as a reality to be lived.”

So, how is the house system lived out at Bishop Verot? We spoke with various members of the community and asked them: “Why is the house/ community program important at our school?”

James Orr, a former community mentor and now a mentor for the house of St. Frances de Sales, responded, “The House System has been so beneficial for Bishop Verot in building relationships among our students across all grade levels.

As a House mentor, I’ve really

2025-2026 Community Leadership Team: Back Row: Madelyn Wells, Lila Dinkel, Quinn Enguita, Grace Riley, Tyler Reeder, Joey Lawson. Front Row: Thomas Eichten, Mia Vaske, Bridget Johnston, Kaelyn Smith, Ambrielle Calixte, Siddalee Rustic, Avah Kipp, Maggie Swift

enjoyed watching student leaders take charge of their houses through team-building activities, faith-based discussions, and the organization of toy drives at Christmas, for example, along with other charitable causes throughout the year. House meetings are perfect times for all members of the Verot family to come together and simply have a space in the day to talk, have fun, and enjoy a break from their academic classes. There have been wonderful memories of outdoor competitions among a few Houses, as well as very spirited community competitions in the gym involving all students. These community competitions have created new friendly rivalries on campus involving our six communities, and

our students are proud to not only be Vikings, but also members of their respective community. All of this being said, the most inspiring thing for me is observing so many students growing in their leadership skills as a result of the House System.”

Maggie Swift, Co-Head of Family, responded, “Being Head of Family for Verot’s House System is an incredible honor that goes far beyond holding a title. It’s an opportunity to truly serve my school community. This role has allowed me to connect with students across all grades, build friendships and foster school spirit through House events bringing us together. I value representing my peers not only

by helping organize activities, but also by striving to live out faith, integrity, and resilience in everyday moments. One of the highlights of my experience has been leading the Freshman Retreat, where I had the privilege of sharing my faith and witnessing the power of genuine connection. Working alongside Mr. Negulescu, Thomas (Co-Head of family), and others who make the House System possible, has shown me the dedication it takes to build a strong, united community. Above all, this role has taught me that leadership is about being present, encouraging others, and guiding with love and compassion.”

Joseph Lawson, one of the community leaders for St. Francis BVHS.org | 9

Community News - continued

of Assisi, responded, “House to me is a time to decompress from the school day. We’re able to have fun and meet people that we usually don’t hang out with. It’s more like a team to me because of our competitions. Faith is included, with each house having a scheduled chapel day, and we pray at the beginning of every house meeting.”

Madelyn Wells, one of the community leaders of St. Teresa, responded, “I love the House System here at Verot and believe it

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really does help us have that sense of community high schoolers need so desperately. I think incorporating faith is important because some people may be fairly new in their faith, and connecting with others who may be further along in their journey can inspire us and connect each of us on a deeper spiritual level. I think that something as simple as prayer with one or two people can be so powerful and help people feel heard and valued, leading to a stronger faith outside of school.”

Siddalee Rustic, one of the community leaders of St. Cecilia, responded, “House is important to me because it creates a safe space where the Verot community comes together to build connections with one another and participate in activities that help foster positive relationships. This aspect of Verot has such a powerful impact on the students that take advantage of the opportunity to grow together.

I wanted to be a leader because I find value in helping to create these bonds through creative activities

Header and faith-centered discussions. I felt called to be a part of the leadership that guides the other senior leaders toward that same goal, working together to bring the Verot community together as a whole.”

Brooke Bunch, a house leader of St. Augustine, responded, “For me, house is a way to connect with the people of your Bishop Verot community in a way that students often couldn’t otherwise. It’s a unique experience that offers both a time outside of the classroom to have some downtime, as well as an opportunity for students of all grade levels to learn more about God’s Word and His love for His people.”

Riley Daubmann, a junior in St. Clare, summarized House in these words: “House has always been something I look forward to in the week, as it’s just a little breather to have fun, talk, and play creative games. I’ve always tried to make everyone in my house feel included, whether it was sitting with them or having them be on my team when they were too shy to join. Another thing that is great to see is we always have something going on, whether it’s a group prayer or someone wanting to try a new game. It’s not just the students who make up the house either; teachers also play a big role in directing what we do. One of my favorite things our house does is Battleship. Everyone gets included, even the teacher. We take desks and put them on their side, and then split the room into two groups. Then they lay down and throw a tennis ball, and if someone gets hit, then they’re out. But everyone sees the game as fun and doesn’t think much of it, but what I see is a room of people who probably wouldn’t talk to each other outside of the room, collaborating and helping each other find where the other people might be. House really makes kids break their shy shell and show their true selves as if they were at home, which truly is my favorite part of House: just seeing everyone put aside their differences and have fun.”

The house system at Verot has continued to grow and improve over the past nine years. This year, more than 100 applications were submitted and accepted for various leadership positions, including Head of Family and Community Leaders. As the program evolves, the community has recognized the need for more faithbased activities and increased student engagement.

Whether through conversations between students and mentors, toy drives, community competitions, door decorating, or Halloween Trick-or-Treating, a strong sense of cohesiveness and bonding can be felt throughout the campus. BG Psalm 133:1 “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!”

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BVHS.org | 11

Continuing the Legacy of Giving through Coaching K

atie Scafidi in 2019 for his ’10 and contributions to Abigail the Verot family, Farrell ’19 are including his continuing their tenure on the family’s legacy of School Board and giving back with the Student Life their time, talent, Committee. The and treasure. four Clinger girls, Pictured Above: Lee Gorgone, the Matriarch, surrounded by the Clinger girls, Katie, Madison, Rusti, Making a positive also including Abigail, and Emma-lee impact on today’s Emma-Lee Gold ’11 Vikings by growing and Madison Clinger their passion and ’18, have learned by example, considering themselves skill for Volleyball is their primary motivation.

Vikings for life.

As young mothers, carving out time to coach high Katie, class of 2010, went on to play beach volleyball schoolers for a season can be challenging, but for at the University of Central Florida, after playing both both Katie and Abbie, it is well worth it. The Clinger volleyball and softball for all four years at Verot. When family has been involved in Verot for decades – their asked why it was important to her to return to lead grandmother, Lee Gorgone, worked in the front office the Beach Volleyball program, Katie shared, “I really for years, and their mother, Rusti ’89, began giving wanted to give back to the place I love and has given back soon after her own college graduation. Often so much to me.” She loves working with her team with her young girls in tow, Rusti served as a cheer and continues to build this very new program. Last coach and also organized the Verot Viking float for the year, she rostered ten players and hopes to see that Edison Festival of Light Parade for many years. Her expand this spring season. When asked how today’s volunteering spanned two decades, as her daughters players are different from the players of her high school joined the Verot family, and she stepped in to organize and college experience, Coach Katie shared today’s the graduation celebration, Valhalla, for many classes. athletes are very dedicated and have a clearer vision of Their father, John, the only one in the family without a Verot diploma, was awarded an Honorary Diploma their goals.

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Some of Katie’s favorite memories of Verot include when the Softball team made it to the State Championships her senior year and the retreats. She loved her experience at the Live Jesus Retreat and enjoyed being a senior leader for Freshman Retreat.

Staying involved keeps her connected to the school that meant so much to her and where she, and her husband, Richy, plan to send their children, Caden (3) and Marlee (2) someday.

Abbie has returned to the Nevins Gym to serve as coach of the Freshman Volleyball team for her second season. Coaching under Head Coach Christy Curtis has also allowed her to see how the program has advanced.

Abbie played on a competitive league with Coach Christy’s daughter, so she is familiar with her coaching style and philosophies.

She continues to instill a renewed Christcentered team culture while concentrating on preparing her freshmen players for JV and Varsity levels. The upperclassmen serve as mentors for the freshmen, welcoming them into the Verot family.

One of Abbie’s greatest memories of her time at Verot is the competitions between Ft. Myers High and Verot and earning the win her junior year. Abbie, and her husband, Will, have two little girls, Sedona (2) and Tallulah (3 months).

Head Coach Christy Curtis shared, “Katie and Abbie continue to help elevate our volleyball program

Katie Abbie

through their dedication, leadership, and passion for the game and our school. As alumni, they’ve become inspiring role models to our girls—proof that the Viking spirit doesn’t end at graduation, but grows stronger in giving back. It is quite inspiring to watch them successfully juggle young motherhood and a passion for Bishop Verot. We are blessed to have them, and it is fun to see their fan club in the stands at all of the home games. They have quite the crew between parents, husbands and kids!” BG BVHS.org | 13

Mission Trips Return

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fter a several year hiatus, several Vikings packed their bags and headed out to participate in a Mission Trip.

To help facilitate the Mission Trip comeback, Bishop Verot’s Campus Ministry Office partnered with Catholic Heart Workcamp, an organization bringing young people together to fulfill their mission of inspiring discipleship through service.

Our student participants joined with young people from all over the country in Jacksonville, Florida, where they spent time in fellowship, prayer and service. Before heading out to their respective service sites, they would celebrate Mass together, pray the Rosary daily, and have an opportunity for confession.

Splitting into small groups for service sites, students benefitted from helping those in need, recognizing that they often were bringing hope to those who felt

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helpless. One group helped to transform a passenger bus into a home for a family who found themselves temporarily homeless. Another group spent hours cleaning a cemetery and church, assisting a single maintenance person in charge of the large property.

During their stay, students also were able to visit St. Augustine, discovering the history of the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the United States. It also happens to be where our namesake, Bishop Augustin Verot, served as the first bishop of the Diocese of St. Augustine from 1870 to 1876.

The week-long trip encouraged spiritual growth, relationship building, and a better understanding of the impact we all can have through service to others. Next year, the Campus Ministry leaders plan to take another group to the Atlanta area as they focus on growing the ministry among the Verot family. BG

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Catholics in Action

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he Catholics in Action (or CIA) Club is one of the largest clubs on the Verot campus and serves students who are seeking to live their Catholic faith more fully. Throughout the school year, members participate in a number of faith events including the Diocesan Youth Rally, Catholic Days at the Capitol, and attend the annual March for Life in Washington, D.C. They also help organize and participate in Life Teen nights, held on the Verot campus quarterly. The first Life Teen night was held last month, with a record number of students in attendance. Participants learned more about the recently sainted Carlo Acutis.

This summer, many CIA members attended Camp Veritas in Lake Placid, Florida. Camp Veritas is a week-long camp for teens to deepen their Catholic faith. Participants grow as intentional disciples of Jesus Christ through team-building activities, testimonies, praise, and worship. Making this year’s event extraordinarily special, several Verot alumni volunteered as organizers and leaders of the camp, including John Gargano ‘13 and his brothers along with Gabi Vasquez ’24 and her siblings.

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Also this summer, many of our students participated in Ave Maria University’s Youth Conference, spending three days on the Ave Maria campus in fellowship with teens from around the country. This annual conference is meant to inspire students to live their faith fully. This year’s conference theme “Proclaim” was celebrated with talks, Mass, Eucharistic Adoration, and music by Epic Music Ministries. BG “But as for you, go and proclaim the Kingdom of God” – Luke 9:60

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W

ith the start of the new school year, Verot launched a new platform to showcase the Verot life using digital media to reach our audience. Under the banner of The Verot Network, find the Verot Sports Network for livestreams, Verot 360 for all the reels and videos showcasing all things Verot, including the weekly news show produced by students, and The Verot Show, our brand-new podcast.

In a world where most of our information is gained from short reels, posts, videos, and podcasts across social media platforms, it was time for Verot to embrace it and take charge. According to the data, our growing audience loves what they are seeing as views continue to climb.

The Verot Show, our Verot podcast, launched in early September with an interview with Mrs. Suzie O’Grady, Principal, with our host, Mr. Brad Negulescu, Director of Student Life. It was followed by the release of an interview with Fr. Shawn Roser, Bishop Verot Campus Chaplain and Parochial Vicar at Church of the Resurrection. The latest Verot Show podcast featured Coach Mike Gill ’68 talking about his long history at Verot.

To follow all these great new networks, visit our website at bvhs.org/verotnetwork or scan the QR code below. BG

BVHS.org | 19

WeLcoMe New Faculty – Fall 2025

Bryan Martin

Bryan is elated to join Bishop Verot’s World Language Department. Having taught French and Spanish at Franciscan University of Steubenville for more than 10 years, he looks forward to helping Verot Vikings work toward proficiency in Spanish. Bryan is a proud first-generation college grad, with a bachelor’s degree from Harvard and a Master of Science from Franciscan University. With additional experience in College Admissions, Study Abroad Advising, and NCAA Coaching, Bryan is excited to teach students how to communicate confidently across multiple languages,

in preparation for the demands of collegiate academics and athletics.

Miguel Melendez

Miguel Melendez joins the Verot Theology Department, serving as Campus Ministry Assistance and Theology teacher. He has lived in New York, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, and California. Miguel attended St. Joseph Seminary and the Dominican School of Philosophy and Theology for his undergraduate degree and certificate in Philosophy. He enjoys practicing the guitar, hiking, and sharing deep conversations with others. You can often find him in the campus

ministry office and he looks forward to serving the Bishop Verot family by helping the students grow in their faith.

Monica Merkle

Monica Merkle is happy to join the Verot family, after teaching for the past three years at St. Andrew Catholic School. Monica was born in Southern California and spent most of her time growing up in Las Vegas, NV. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Nevada and her master’s degree from Walden University. Monica is teaching in the Mathematics Department, bringing with her

Pictured Above Left to Right: Rob Scmidbauer, Alex Ramirez, Tyler Reeve, Monica Merkle, Mike Zizza, Miguel Melendez, and Bryan Martin

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22 years of teaching experience.

Monica and her husband, Jeff ’98, have been married for 18 years and have two daughters, Hannah ’28 and Charlotte ’32.

Alex Ramirez

Alex Ramirez joins the Theology Department, teaching sophomore theology. Originally from Puerto Rico, Alex grew up in Saint Louis, Missouri, and it is there he discovered faith for himself. Alex initially wanted to become an astronaut during high school but found his fascination for the universe was satisfied through theology. He earned his bachelor’s degree in theology from Ave Maria University and is currently working on his Master of Theology. He is excited to join the Verot family and is excited to see what the Good Lord has in store for him.

Tyler Reeve

Tyler enters his fifth year of teaching as he joins the Social Studies Department. He was born and raised in Panama City, Florida before attending Florida State University in Tallahassee for both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees. While at Florida State, Tyler met his wife, a

Verot grad from the class of 2018, who always told him he had to find a way to Verot in his teaching career. Tyler began teaching in Tallahassee, before moving to Cape Coral, where he spent the past three years teaching at Challenger Middle School. Tyler, and his wife, Brigette (Linden) ’18, were recently married and reside in Cape Coral with their pup, Owen, and are enjoying the joys of marriage.

Rob Schmidbauer

Rob Schmidbauer has joined the Verot family from Toledo, Ohio. Rob begins his 30th year of teaching and has taught History courses, Political Science, Digital Media, Web Design, and Microsoft Office. His lengthy experience also includes time in both private and public-school systems, including rural, suburban, and city schools. He is very involved in his Catholic faith and much prefers teaching in Catholic schools.

Despite being from Ohio, Rob is a die-hard Michigan fan evidenced by his frequent wearing of Michigan shirts. Rob is very happy to be un the sunny south and away from the cold snow. He has three children and six grandchildren.

Mike Zizza

Michael Zizza is a creative professional with years of experience in design and branding.

He’s passionate about inspiring his students at Bishop Verot as the new digital design instructor. As the Senior Art Director at Showtime Networks, he led teams in creating award-winning campaigns and digital content. Since 2008, he’s been an Interactive Creative, producing engaging campaigns for clients like Paramount+, American Express, and Discovery Channel. Before that, at NBCUniversal, he founded the New York digital team and designed campaigns for the NFL, Olympics, and Primetime Programming. At the beginning of his career at Discovery Communications, he developed print and on-air branding for networks like Discovery Channel, TLC, and Animal Planet. In 2020, Michael, his lovely wife Lori, and their three kids, Lena, Gino, and Mia '29, bid farewell to New York City and moved to sunny Fort Myers. A mentor at heart, Michael is thrilled to share his passion for design and creative collaboration with his students. BG

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I

ntroducing a new feature in your B&G! Coach Greg Coleman ’98, Athletic Director, will be contributing his seasonal athletic update in each edition and sharing the accomplishments of our 31 athletic teams. Please be sure to follow VerotAthletics. org on social media for all the up-to-date athletic information throughout the school year. You can also catch livestreamed competitions on Verot Sports Network.

As we close out an exciting fall season, I want to take a moment to recognize the incredible efforts of our student-athletes, coaches, and families who continue to raise the bar for Bishop Verot athletics. This fall has been a testament to what it means to be a Viking: competing with passion, striving for excellence, and representing our school community with pride and class.

Our football program once again showed why it is among the top in the state, taking on one of the most competitive schedules in Florida and earning key victories that have set the tone for a strong playoff run.

The volleyball team continued its tradition of excellence, showcasing grit and teamwork in every match. Their deep run in district play highlighted the strength of our program and the leadership of our seniors, earning them their 2nd District Championship in as many years.

On the course, our cross country teams posted outstanding results, with several runners earning personal bests and top finishes at invitational meets.

Our swim team made waves with multiple student-athletes qualifying for regional competition, building momentum with a culture rooted in discipline and support for one another.

The golf programs once again represented Bishop Verot well, with both boys and girls turning in strong performances and advancing through postseason play.

The bowling team enjoyed another competitive year, with student-athletes showing steady improvement and pushing deep into district competition. Their teamwork and growth as a program continue to make us proud.

Our cheerleading and dance teams brought energy and spirit to Viking Stadium every Friday night, playing a huge role in creating an atmosphere that sets Bishop Verot apart. Their performances not only uplift our teams and fans but also showcase the talent, creativity, and dedication of our spirit programs.

As we celebrate these accomplishments, I am reminded that Bishop Verot athletics is about more than wins and trophies. It’s about shaping young men and women who embody the values of perseverance, teamwork, and integrity. Our students inspire us daily with their commitment to excellence in the classroom, in competition, and in service to the community.

Thank you to our coaches, parents, and fans for being such a vital part of this journey. Your support makes Viking athletics what it is—a family and a tradition of greatness. We look forward to carrying this momentum into the winter and spring seasons.

Go Vikings!

Greg

Greg Coleman Athletic Director

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BVHS.org | 23

School News

O

ur families often talk about how different it is at Bishop Verot. While we agree, it is very affirming when we hear it from our families, both past and present. A couple years ago, we began using the hashtag #itsjustdifferenthere on our social media posts

– and it even made it on the front of some team and spirit t-shirts.

In each edition going forward, we will be highlighting events, projects, and moments on campus that truly set Verot apart.

Patriotic Rosary In late September, the Campus Ministry team invited students and parents to gather on the front steps of campus for prayer. Students led the Patriotic Rosary, praying for our country and specifically each of the 50 states. Thank you to all the parents who took time to participate in this event.

Biology Lab Learning Many students learn best with hands-on activities, making Lab time in Biology not only fun but an integral part of a student’s academic success.

Recently, Lee County Mosquito Control scientists hosted a mosquito education lab for students to learn the effects of pesticides on wildlife and how mosquito control can effectively control mosquito larvae. Students performed a Bioassay, a test used to determine the toxicity of a substance on an organism. They also learned how to understand the data collected and how it is used to control the mosquito population.

St. John XXIII Catholic Church

Fort Myers, FL | 239.561.2245 | www.johnxxiii.net

Showing our continued support of Catholic Education for

Bishop Verot High School We pray for all students and faculty at Bishop Verot as you learn and grow in your faith and your academics. We send to you our love and support.

24 | B&G Fall 2025

School News Athletes Make a Difference Off the Field Members of the Verot Varsity Football Program joined residents of High Point Senior Living Community in Cape Coral for dinner and camaraderie. Players and seniors connected sharing stories and building relationships. These visits bring joy to both the players and the seniors with some of them dressing in black and gold in a show of support for the Vikings!

Academic Excellence Verot is known for the academic rigor and college preparedness and its impact on the future of students. Curriculum includes SAT/ACT preparation for all students with assessments analyzed annually, helping students anticipate future scores and implement steps for improvement if needed, through the administering of the PSAT. The PSAT also serves as the National Merit Scholarship Program qualifier, identifying exceptional students as candidates. This year, we had two students qualify as Semifinalists and six students awarded Commended Students. Congratulations to all of these extremely motivated and hard-working students!

National Merit Commended Students Thomas Eichten, Benjamin Juhasz, Brooke Bunche, Mark Chung, Gavin Mann, and Bennett Sweitzer

National Merit Semifinalists Ambrielle Calixte and Sofia Mayus

SAINT COLUM)3KILLE , I

I

Loovee Briings Peeoplee Toogether - Chariity Briings Chriisttians Toogether As Catholics, we are called to live our Christian faith every day.

Good education is an essential part of learning to live our faith.

Catholic churches and Catholic schools work together for the Kingdom of God.

Father Lorenzo Gonzalez For anyone looking for God, they are welcomed, accepted, loved and respected here at St. Columbkille Catholic Parish.

12171 Iona Road, Ft. Myers, FL- 239-489-3973 - www.stcolumbkille.com BVHS.org | 25

Alumni Association - Staying Connected

W

e hope many of you were able to join us for the annual Alumni Homecoming Tailgate and are looking forward to sharing some pictures of the event in the next edition, along with pictures from many of the reunions held during the weekend.

Looking ahead, mark your calendar for the fall play, Anne of Green Gables, in the Anderson Theater, November 6 – 9, 2025. It is always great to welcome alumni, especially those who took part in performing arts during their high school years.

In January, Verot will host Verot Night at the Everblades. Tickets for the Friday, January 16th game will go on sale soon, so watch your social media for more information. There will also be a Verot Alumni table at the event with some give-aways. Let’s turn the venue black and gold!

Please also be sure to follow the new Bishop Verot Alumni Association Facebook page (even if you have already done so – the page has been updated). Our Assistant Director of Special Events, Donor and Alumni Relations, Crystal Melton (crystal.melton@bvhs.org), is working hard to connect with our alumni and Facebook is a great resource. Please also consider updating your contact information at bvhs.org under the Alumni tab. BG

26 | B&G Fall 2025

Alumni News IN MEMORY OF ALEXANDER TORRES ’08 Alex attended Florida State University and Florida Gulf Coast University, after graduating Verot in 2008, earning his bachelor’s degree in business administration.

Tragically, Alex was killed in a car accident in August of 2020, just a few days shy of his 30th birthday. The accident was the result of riding with an impaired driver, a quick decision resulting in unimaginable loss for the family. As he is remembered on the five-year anniversary of his death, the family hopes that through awareness another tragedy may be prevented.

CAVENAGO FAMILY

Dr. Deirdre Catlin ’90, Lizette Boulanger ’89, Crista Hover ’93, and Carlos Cavenago Esq.’96 We are deeply grateful to the Cavenago family, proud Bishop Verot alumni, for their generous contribution in support of scholarship funding. Their gift not only reflects a lasting connection to our school’s tradition of faith, excellence, and community, but also ensures that future generations of students will have the opportunity to experience all that a Bishop Verot education provides. The Cavenagos’ commitment to giving back is a shining example of the Verot spirit in action, and we are blessed by their continued support of our mission.

JONAS SCHLOTTERBECK ’14 Congratulations to Jonas Schlotterbeck who married Emily Bulkeley on September 27, 2025, at the beautiful Manor at Airmont in Virginia. The couple now resides in Washington, D.C. The ceremony was officiated by Ryan Hudnall ’07, who also happens to be the godson of longtime BVHS science teacher Katie Schlotterbeck (faculty since 2015).

Jonas’s brother, Isaac Schlotterbeck ’12, stood by his side as best man.

Groomsmen included fellow Class of 2014 alumni Sean Kopper and Scott Gislason. Joining the celebration were BVHS classmates Kenleigh Gislason, Erin Gillies, Kevin Leddy, Dakota Herding, and Paul Neihaus, all from the Class of 2014.

JUSTIN HOLMES ’14 Justin and Allie MacLeod were joined in marriage in September. The couple celebrated with family and friends in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. Justin and Allie are building their wholesale snack business, Justintime Munchies, throughout Southwest Florida. They reside in Cape Coral with their three pups – Abby, Lexy, and Riley.

BVHS.org | 27

Alumni Sports

TIMMY LAWSON '24

MADDIX SIMPSON '24

Lawson had a busy summer after redshirting in his freshman season at North Carolina. The left-handed pitcher started his summer with the Charlottesville TomSox of the Valley Baseball League, striking out 37 hitters across 24.2 innings of work and allowing just 13 hits. Lawson then got the call from the top summer collegiate league in the nation, the Cape Cod Baseball League. He finished his summer as a member of the Bourne Braves and helped the team to its tenth all-time CCBL championship and its third in four years.

Simpson earned an immediate role in his first season at Ohio State, making 34 starts during the 2025 season.

The freshman logged 27 hits in his first year, including six doubles and two home runs. He logged a pair of three-hit games during his freshman season, coming against Kent State in April and Michigan State ten days later. Simpson drove in 24 runs and scored another 18, and his first career home run came against one of the nation’s top teams, Oregon, on March 29. Simpson also excelled in the classroom, earning Ohio State Scholar Athlete honors.

VICTORIA ASH '23

SARAH YAMRICK '23

Victoria Ash served as one of FGCU’s main pitchers during the 2025 season, her first back in Lee County.

She logged 152.1 total innings for the Eagles, picking up ten wins and coming out of the bullpen for three saves. The righthander went the distance in 10 of her 24 starts, including two efforts - against North Florida and Pittsburgh - where she tossed seven innings without allowing an earned run. Ash was also a standout on the academic side, earning recognition as College Sports Communicators Academic All-District.

Yamrick was a two-way standout for NCAA Division II Bloomsburg. In the circle, she logged a 2.33 earned run average across 138.1 innings of work, striking out 124 hitters. She also made 50 starts at the plate and ended the season with a batting average of .392 and a slugging percentage of .487. Yamrick drove in 27 runs during the 2025 season and crossed home plate 34 times. For her efforts, she was honored as a Second Team All-PSAC selection and was recognized regionally as All-Atlantic Region Second Team.

north carolina - baseball

fgcu - softball

28 | B&G Fall 2025

ohio state - baseball

bloomsberg - softball

Alumni Sports

FIDEL ALVIAR '23

AIDAN KNAAK '23

Alviar earned a starting role in his second season at NAIA Kentucky Christian University. The sophomore was the only player on the Kentucky Christian roster to play in each of the team’s 44 games and led the team with 155 total at-bats. Alviar hit safely in 48 of those atbats, logging nine doubles, two triples, and four home runs. He was second on Kentucky Christian’s roster with 34 runs batted in and added another 25 runs scored.

Alviar ended the season with a .310 batting average, a .352 on-base percentage, and a .471 slugging percentage.

In his second season at Clemson, Knaak continued to prove himself as one of the best pitchers in college baseball. The right-hander was a First Team All-ACC selection, becoming the first Tiger pitcher in history to earn First-Team All-ACC honors in each of his first two seasons. Knaak went 9-1 during the 2025 season, striking out 110 hitters in 90.1 innings on the mound.

He allowed just 71 hits in those 90.1 innings, making 16 starts for the nationally-ranked Tigers. In his two seasons on campus, Clemson has a 26-5 record in his 31 career starts.

KOLTON CURTIS '22

CJ ALEXANDER '15

kentucky christian - baseball

clemson - baseball

texas rangers organization

los angeles dodgers organization

Curtis has quickly risen through the ranks of the Texas Rangers farm system and is currently ranked as one of the organization’s top 25 prospects. Curtis played the entirety of the 2025 season with the high-A Hub City Spartanburgers, striking out 75 hitters in 66 innings of work. Curtis was a starting pitcher for much of the season, making 16 starts for Hub City and allowing just 50 hits in 66 innings of work. Curtis’ season will continue into the fall, as he will play in the prestigious Arizona Fall League as a member of the Surprise Saguaros.

Alexander played for his second Major League team during the 2025 season, playing seven games for the Athletics as the lone Verot alum to play in the big leagues this season. The 2015 Verot alum also spent time in the Yankees and Dodgers organizations during his seventh season of professional baseball, finishing the year in the farm system of the Dodgers. Alexander played 52 games for the triple-A Oklahoma City Comets, hitting five home runs and driving in 30 runs with an on-base percentage of .332 and a slugging percentage of .457.

BVHS.org | 29

Alumni Calendar

Save the Date The Class of 2006 will be celebrating their 20th reunion the weekend of May 29 - 31, 2026 in Fort Myers. A weekendlong, multi-event reunion is in the works! More information to come soon, including formal invitations via email.

Any questions, contact Kacie (Zavada) Antonelli (kacie.antonelli@gmail.com), Tyler Adams (tylerhadams@ gmail.com), or Pippa Greenburg (pkgreenb2@gmail.com).

Reach out to any of the three if you have questions or can provide an updated email address.

Please send any upcoming reunion information to patty.holmes@bvhs.org for future B&G publications.

Thank you!

30 | B&G Fall 2025

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